Seismic performance in and around Tokyo, Japan

The Tokyo area is at the intersection of three tectonic plates (the Philippine plate, the Eurasian plate and the North American Plate) and is one of the most seismic active regions in the world. This region has been nicknamed the Belt of Fire. On mean an earthquake can be felt every day. Most, however, are negligible.

Some, however, are highly virulent: September 1, 1923, the great earthquake of Kanto kills over 140 000 people and leaves nearly 2 million people without shelter. Its magnitude was measured at 7.9 on the Richter scale. This phenomenon can be explained when the three tectonic plates lack of inertia, released an excessive accumulation of energy, and once in motion, was the source of the devastating earthquake. If the three plates were to collide, which is unrealistic but possible, the power released would be such that nothing could resist destruction.

Earthquake & Tsunami In Japan

According to the explore group tokyo Team, a violent earthquake occurs every 400 years. There would be 0 5% opportunity that such an earthquake will occur within 30 years. There would, however be a 30% opportunity that a less violent earthquake which will still cause wide damage will occur in the same time period. The most violent earthquake in up-to-date years took place in 2005 and was a magnitude of 5.9 on the open Richter scale, causing panic but no casualties and only moderate damage.

Tokyo has the newest technological advances in earthquake prevention, like those high-tech structure resting on weighty steel springs to Ant. Eject most of the seismic waves, and thus limit the risk of collapse. Despite these devices, an earthquake of magnitude 7, would kick off causing huge losses, both human and material.

Seismic performance in and around Tokyo, Japan